The Initiative 4 Equality is hosting an emergency response fund that will provide an immediate response to the changing needs of LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria on issues of violence based on their sexual orientation or gender identity either by state or non-state actors.

This fund seeks to provide funding for unforeseen, serious, unexpected, and dangerous situations that threatens the human rights in Nigeria requiring immediate action e.g. the costs of legal representation in cases related to your sexual orientation and gender identity, emergency medical intervention, emergency shelter or funding for organizations to collect information about abuse more quickly and are able to intervene in time-sensitive matters.

The Fund is expected to provide financial assistance to Nigerian LGBTQIA+ people in danger and strengthen organisations’ response to emergencies fueled by breach of fundamental human rights in Nigeria. Accordingly, the Fund is intended solely for unforeseen issues directly related to the gender identity or sexual orientation of LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria.

The following guidelines have been issued to guide your application to the Edge Emergency Response Fund. Please read them carefully and contact us if you have any questions.

Aim of the Fund

Your application must meet one of the following objectives of the fund:

• Legal Representation – Funding for legal representation
• Medical Support – Funding for medical support including hospitalization and medication
• Emergency shelter or facilitation to move to a safe house

How much can I apply for?

There is no maximum amount that can be applied for, please apply for the exact amount you need and it will be approved at the discretion of the committee made up of 7 members independent of TIERs.

Do I need to pay back the funds?

We do not require you to pay back the funds given to you. However, you may only apply once in a year. This is to enable us to spread the funds to other community members who may also need help. Extreme situations may qualify for exceptions.

Who can be funded?

Individuals from the LGBTQ+  community in Nigeria, and organizations working with the LGBTQIA+ community.

Who/what CANNOT be funded?

• Voluntary, charitable and non-profit ventures
• Personal expenses (hosting a party/LGBT+ event, house rent, personal loan, school fees etc.)
• Gifts and other donations
• Projects or advocacy initiatives
• Non-emergencies
• Emergencies unrelated to sexual orientation and gender identity

How soon can I expect a response after I apply

Applications will be collated and reviewed by the Application Review Board every 72 hours. Please expect a decision about your application within 72 hours.

Both successful and unsuccessful applicants will be informed of their status at a maximum of 72 hours.

I still have more questions, who can I contact?

Please send an email to discuss an application or for further guidance.
Email: help@initiative4equality.org

I understand it now. How can I apply?
If you are applying for funds for yourself, please use the ‘individual‘ link. If you are applying for funds on behalf of an organisation, please use the ‘organisation‘ link.